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Letter DGeology glossary

Desertification

Desertification is the process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically as a result of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agricultural practices. It leads to the loss of productive land and biodiversity and is a major environmental issue in arid and semi-arid regions. Desertification is significant in environmental science, land management, and global sustainability efforts.

Dry mountain landscape with rugged hills (desertification)
Fig. 1 Dry mountain landscape with rugged hills (desertification)

Source UNCCD (1994). “United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.” United Nations.

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